Day 1 The Send off September 2, 2013

After a fantastic send off at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club where dozens of friends and family and well wishers showed up to cheer him on, Glenn let go the lines and set sail at 13:00 PST.

Tony Gooch, who completed a single-handed non-stop circumnavigation east about in 2003, is officiating Glenn’s attempt. Tony set the official start time at 15:37 PDT ( 23:37 UTC) September 2, 2013. Tony writes “West Wind II crossed the start line, a line drawn almost due south from the prominent post on the north side of Trial Island and the Lighthouse on Trial Island.”

Waving goodbye from West Wind II. Photo: Sandy Beaman

He sailed out of Cadboro Bay in a light breeze and rounded Trial Island where he caught 10 – 15 knots of wind. He was doing a steady 7 knots all the way out to Albert Head and came through Race Passage at 18:00 doing 9 knots.

Heading out the Straits of Juan de Fuca. Photo: Sandy Beaman

On a satellite phone from the cockpit, Glenn reports a beautiful sunny evening, a steady 10 – 15 knot breeze, the wind generator humming overhead, and very little traffic in the Straits of Juan de Fuca.

He was taking it easy after a more than hectic schedule over the past weeks and months, and had just finished a bowl of his Mom’s macaroni and cheese. He said he was wearing his safety harness and sunglasses, two things he promised to do.

Thanks to everyone who came by to give him a royal send off and to those who sent emails and left messages on the blog. All in all, a fantastic start.

Glenn, so excited you are continuing to follow this dream of yours. I look forward to following the blog. Praying for a safe voyage!
Nikki (not sure you remember me I work at Ocean River back in the day :)

Congratulations to Glenn and team! This is something most of us only dream, but you are taking it on. I have read of such voyages and just hope to hear of trials and tribulations but ultimately victory in this magnificent undertaking.